OVERVIEW
The AAFD is a national non-profit trade association representing the rights and interests of franchisees and independent dealers throughout the United States. The AAFD’s mission is ‘To define, identify and promote the AAFD’s vision of Total Quality Franchising® (TQF℠)’. This is accomplished by promoting fair and equitable franchising and dealer practices and by empowering effective independent franchise associations.
1) WHY choose the AAFD
For more than 30 years, the AAFD has promoted and advocated for fair and balanced franchise agreements and relationships, and helped thousands of franchisees form independent associations as chapters of the AAFD. A franchisee association provides a platform for members to speak with one voice, providing representation and advocacy with the franchisor, and as a negotiating body to promote the interests and rights of franchisees. An association also provides a framework for franchisees to work together, share best-practices and resources, and may be a key strategic tool for the franchisor’s long-term brand and business development.
Launching your franchisee association as a chapter of The American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD) is the most efficient and cost-effective way to quickly and easily form your franchisee association. With the expert organizational guidance and resources of the AAFD, you can bring your fellow franchisees together to strengthen your voice and make sure your franchisor is listening.
Robert L. Purvin, Jr.
Franchisee Associations: There’s Strength in Numbers
“Strength in Numbers” may be a cliché, but it is also an absolute truth. Being part of an active independent franchisee association is a powerful way to improve t how franchisees interact with their franchisor. Franchisee associations, especially when seeking a positive and collaborative franchise relationship, can effectively level the playing field in a franchise system by joining franchisee voices to a common cause.
Robert Purvin, AAFDs Co-founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, says, “Franchisee concerns have evolved over the past 30 years, and the encroachment, infringement and erosion of franchisee rights and ownership equity continues to plague many owners who are usually locked into one-sided onerous franchise agreements. In 2024, franchisor abuse of supplier mandates is the most frequent complaint we see, but price controls, franchisor competition, mandated POS systems are also frequent issues raised by our members.”
Unfortunately, these are just a few examples of what franchisees are dealing with when they come to the AAFD for help.
Richard E. Stroiney
Forming An Independent Association
“Are you a member of a Franchisee Association?”, or perhaps, you’re thinking of starting one, but have some questions such as: “What will happen if my franchisor finds out?”, or “Why do I need an association if we have a Franchisor Owners Association?”. Maybe you want to start an association or join an existing one, but are afraid of retaliation and are feeling trapped?
These are all valid questions, and you are not alone. “The majority of franchise owners come to the AAFD for help on working more effectively with their franchisor”, says Richard Stroiney, chief Executive Officer and Trustee.
“Learning to effectively communicate with the franchisor is a critical component of success for franchisees. The AAFD creates an environment where the Association can be an important strategic and development tool for the franchisor, provided both parties can communicate effectively. Once formed, leveraging the strength in numbers is not only about influence, but it also creates a dynamic where the Association can provide valuable support in expanding or supporting the brand in conjunction with the franchisor’s efforts.”
Successes – GHCFA Case Study
Griswold Home Care (GHCFA) has been a member of the AAFD since 2001. This case study demonstrates how an association worked together to seek a collaborative relationship with their Franchisor and the impact their efforts had on the success of their brand.
Leverage Your Buying Power as an Association
As a valued member of our Association, you'll be able to tap into an extensive network of suppliers, giving you the ability to leverage your buying power and negotiate better pricing on the products and services you need to run your business. Join us today and start taking advantage of these valuable benefits!
Amy Mancuso
“Two of our greatest member benefits is the access to Healthcare and Legal services at a reduced cost. Healthcare and access to the nation’s top franchise attorneys are two of the most sought-after services franchisees need”, said Amy Mancuso, Chief Development Officer. “These two, along with many other negotiated products, services and business solutions, give our members valuable resources that they would not have on their own.”
Member purchasing power is a fundamental benefit that franchisee associations offer. The AAFD is continuously negotiating quality programs and discounts to increase the value of membership.
Can we Make a Difference in Franchise Legislation?
Franchisees often feel helpless to make meaningful changes in laws and regulations that can protect their investments. They forget that while the franchisor lobby has the money, franchisees have the numbers, with outlets in every Congressional district in the country.
“We have only begun to scratch the surface of our potential to engage franchisees, but as we do, we will unleash a powerful force in having our voices heard, and ultimately impact franchisee friendly policies”, stated Keith Miller, AAFD’s Director of Public Affairs and Engagement. Being a member of your franchisee association and a member of the AAFD gives you the opportunity to have your voice heard.
In May 2023, the AAFD collaboratively hosted a webinar that gave franchisees a platform to directly communicate with the Federal Trade Commission Chair, Lina Khan. This event was a prime example of how our voices can be heard when we come together as a community. Under the leadership of Chair Khan, the FTC is taking a critical look at franchising to ensure that the franchisee's investments are protected from any unfair or deceptive acts or practices. Additionally, the AAFD has continued its unwavering support of franchisee-friendly legislation, both at the federal and state levels. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that franchisees are given the support and protection they deserve, and we will not stop until we achieve this goal.
As franchisees gain economic power, franchisees will achieve the ability to educate the public, influence legislation, expose abusive franchising practices, and honor and reward exemplary practices.
The AAFD seeks to serve the franchising community, promote that which is good and healthy, and excise that which is exploitative and unscrupulous.
To learn more about how you can set up a franchise association, or to see if your franchise brand has already established an independent association, contact us at [email protected].